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title: How to Securely and Freely use IRC 
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Internet Relay Chat *(IRC)* is a popular chat protocol for freedom lovers.
IRC is popular because it is only a protocol, rather than a centralized service.
Being a *protocol* means that any user can send and receive messages that others can understand without having to build their messaging infrastructure from the ground up.

The downside of IRC is that all of its freedoms make using it properly a bit of an annoyance.
For example, many new IRC users take the path of least resistance and use a web interface for a specific server.
Connecting via a web interface usually means that the user can only see messages transmitted while the tab is open and their machine is connected to the internet.
The reason one can't view old messages is because IRC servers do not save old messages, they only transmit messages to connected clients.

This guide will explain how to securely use IRC with your preferred nick *(username)* and view old messages from when you're not actively viewing the chat.

## ZNC Bouncer

An IRC bouncer is simple to understand.
The bouncer connects to the IRC server on your behalf and allows clients to connect to it.
A bouncer is therefore a middle-man between your irc client and the server to which you want to connect.
Since the bouncer is always connected to the server, you won't have to worry about missing answers to your questions when you close your irc client.

